14 Celebrity Deaths In November: Stars Who Were Gone Too Soon

Several notable figures in the entertainment industry, including actors, musicians and directors, passed away this November.

Each of these individuals left an indelible mark on their respective fields, and their legacies will endure through their contributions to film, television, music and more.

Here are 14 celebrities who died in November. 

1. Frances Sternhagen - Nov. 27

The two-time Tony Award winner, known for her roles in "Sex and the City" and "Cheers," passed away peacefully Monday at her home, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances. She was 93.

Her son, John Carlin, shared a heartfelt Instagram post on Wednesday, expressing gratitude for the "remarkable gift of an artist and human being that was Frances Sternhagen."

2. Jean Knight - Nov. 22

The Grammy-nominated singer, famous for the 1971 hit "Mr. Big Stuff," died of natural causes, according to Entertainment Weekly. She was 80.

Knight's hit song earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

Her soulful voice and impactful songs, which also included "You Got the Papers (But I Got the Man)" and her cover of Rockin' Sydney's "(Don't Mess With My) My Toot Toot," made her a respected figure in the music industry.

3. Marty Krofft - Nov. 25

Known as the "King of Saturday Mornings," Marty Krofft, along with his brother Sid, revolutionized children's programming in the 1970s.

Their iconic shows like "H.R. Pufnstuf" and "Land of the Lost" left a lasting impact on generations of viewers, earning them a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2020.

Krofft was 86 when he died on Nov. 25. 

4. Mars Williams - Nov. 20

Mars Williams, renowned saxophonist for the Psychedelic Furs and the Waitresses, died Nov. 20 after a battle with ampullary cancer. He was 68.

His versatile musical career included contributions to new wave and free jazz, leaving an enduring mark on the music scene.

In addition to the Waitresses and the Psychedelic Furs, Williams founded the acid jazz group Liquid Soul and was a member of the free jazz group NRG Ensemble. 

5. Joss Ackland - Nov. 19

With a career spanning eight decades, British actor Joss Ackland passed away at 95.

Ackland's extensive filmography included notable roles in "Lethal Weapon 2" and "The Hunt for Red October," showcasing his versatility and talent.

He was also known for originating the role of Juan Perón in the West End production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Evita."

He was nominated for two BAFTA awards, including Best Supporting Actor for "White Mischief" in 1989 and Best Actor for "First and Last" in 1990. 

6. Peter Spellos - Nov. 19

Best known for his role on NBC's "American Dreams," actor Peter Spellos passed away in Indianapolis on Nov. 19. He was 69.

His diverse career encompassed appearances on popular shows like "The Wonder Years" and "Newsradio" and voiceover work on "Transformers: Robots in Disguise," "Cowboy Bebop," "Digimon," "Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex," "Bleach" and "Naruto." 

7. Suzanne Shepherd - Nov. 17

Actress Suzanne Shepherd, known for playing the onscreen mothers in "Goodfellas" and "The Sopranos," left a remarkable legacy in film and television.

She also appeared in "Bullet," "Lolita," "Requiem for a Dream," and "A Dirty Shame," directed in theaters across the U.S., and worked as an acting coach at her New York studio.

She was 89 when she passed away peacefully in her New York City home on Nov. 17. 

8. Kevin Turen - Nov. 12

Emmy-nominated producer Kevin Turen, co-founder of Little Lamb Productions, was known for his work on HBO's "Euphoria" and Ti West's "X" film series.

Among his other producing credits are "The Idol," "Malcolm & Marie," " Pieces of a Woman," "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," "The Birth of a Nation," "99 Homes," "All Is Lost" and the upcoming "MaXXXine."

Turen died on Nov. 12 following a medical emergency behind the wheel of his Tesla car. He was 44. 

9. Conny Van Dyke - Nov. 11

Actress and Motown singer-songwriter Conny Van Dyke, one of the first white artists on the Motown label, died from complications due to vascular dementia. She was 78.

Her musical career, spanning multiple genres, and her contributions to films like "Hell's Angels '69" and "Dixie Dancekings" defined her legacy. 

10. Brandi Mallory - Nov. 9

Featured on ABC's "Extreme Weight Loss" in 2014, Brandi Mallory's inspirational journey from 329 pounds to 178 pounds touched the hearts of many. Her subsequent work as a makeup and fitness influencer and dance instructor continued to inspire others.

Mallory died on Nov. 9 after being found in her car in Atlanta, People reported. She was 40.

The cause of death is still under investigation, though the Atlanta Police Department said there was no sign of foul play.

11. Janet Landgard - Nov. 6

Actress Janet Landgard, known for her roles in "The Swimmer" and "The Donna Reed Show," passed away at 75 after a battle with brain cancer.

Her contributions to both television and film showcased her versatility as a performer. She also starred in "Land Raiders," "The Deadly Dream" and "Moonchild." 

12. Ross McDonnell - Nov. 5

Emmy-winning Irish cinematographer and director Ross McDonnell's untimely death at age 44 saddened the film community.

His family confirmed his death in an obituary. NBC News reported that remains believed to be McDonnell were discovered at Breezy Point Beach on Nov. 17. The filmmaker went missing during a bike ride in Brooklyn on Nov. 4.

His notable works, including "The Trade" and the COVID-19 documentary "The First Wave," earned him recognition and accolades.

13. Evan Ellingson - Nov. 5

Former child actor Evan Ellingson, remembered for his roles on "CSI: Miami" and "My Sister's Keeper," died on Nov. 5. He was 35.

He also appeared in shows such as "Bones" and "24," and films such as "Time Changer," "Confession," "The Bondage" and "Walk the Talk."

His last onscreen appearance was on "CSI: Miami" in 2010. 

14. Peter White - Nov. 1

Actor Peter White, known for his role in the original 1968 off-Broadway production of "The Boys in the Band," passed away at 86 after battling melanoma.

His other credits include "All My Children," "The Jeffersons," "Hart to Hart," "Dynasty," "The West Wing," "Flubber," and "Armageddon."

As fans bid farewell to these talented individuals, let's celebrate the lasting impact they have on the world of entertainment. Their work will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.